Closing remarks Ian Jackson OneGeology and British Geological Survey November 2010

Why has OneGeology worked? Short simple mission and vision, and 3 simple goals Uncomplicated initial proposition, more sophisticated functionality and data later Inclusivity Minimal intrusion into local systems Pragmatic approach to coordination and governance A “let’s do it, not excessively strategise about it and discuss it” ethos Motivated network Outreach and media a priority

The lessons learned? show the benefit of a vehicle to apply the data simply and graphically as well as develop them the power of a white space on a map is huge incentive to join Outreach and professional communication pays – be bold and imaginative about it (and don’t leave it to scientists & technicians!) Branding IS important! SDI strategies are opaque to wider stakeholders and those who have to implement them outside So don’t overdo the technical theory and strategising - take a practical approach …. do, learn, build V2

Rich diversity, extensive, expert, committed Great progress on a wide front in last few years …..but these assets are also a two-edged sword ….and present 10 challenges GEO – some impressions from this workshop

1.Managing expectations - is GEO being too ambitious for what is a militia, not an army – is it advancing on too wide a front? 2.Is GEO/GEOSS data access ignoring an elephant in the room – researchers reluctance to release data? 3.Does GEO need a more mature and up-to-date approach to public release of data – one consistent with public interest and the internet paradigm? 4.SBA are much talked about, but could GEO do more to relate to society and less self-serving research? 5.Is there enough resource and priority given to PR and media profile?

6.Does GEO have the clear, efficient structure and governance to achieve its aspirations – does it need to prune and reduce the complexity? 7.Is GEO current engagement policy with the commercial sector an opportunity lost? 8.No explicit know-how exchange aim and yet GEO is doing it - should there be? 9.Much of the work is project based – is enough priority given to sustainability of the knowledge and systems? 10.Great progress which “changed the game” – but what is the next GEO game changer?